Fall Tips for Keeping Creepy Pests Out of Homes

Spiders aren’t just for Halloween decorations. The North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), today reminded North Carolinians to begin winter-proofing their homes against pests, especially spiders, who may be looking for warmer temperatures inside of homes.

“Fall in North Carolina leads to cooler temperatures, changing leaf color and more indoor pests,” said Clint Miller of the NCPMA Board of Directors. “As pests begin to seek warmer places to stay for the winter, many people may begin noticing more spider webs and other signs of pest activities in and around their homes. There are several things people can do to prevent pests from becoming a burden.”

NCPMA offers the following tips for dealing with spiders and other indoor pests:

• Properly store clothing. Don’t leave clothing lying on a floor. Hang it up or keep it in a plastic container.  Shake out any clothing or shoes that have been on a floor or in a hamper before wearing.
• Wear gloves or protective clothing when gardening and moving pieces of wood. Raking leaves and winterizing your garden is a popular activity this time of year, so make sure to wear gloves and long pants and sleeves to protect against spiders hiding in leaves and foliage.  Also, spiders like to hide in woodpiles and pieces of wood, so be careful when picking up pieces of wood.
• Check clothes for insects and spiders when returning indoors.
• De-Clutter your home. Make Spring Cleaning a part of your fall activity as well. Keep garages, attics and basements clean and clutter free.
• Consult a professional. Get your home inspected regularly by a qualified, licensed pest professional.  Your pest professional can recommend steps you can take to make sure your home stays pest-free.

The NCPMA’s members receive regular training on how to prevent and treat all pests, including spiders.